Gabbard on Assad and Gaddafi: U.S. Mistakes Fueled Extremism

Washington: Tulsi Gabbard, nominated to serve as Director of National Intelligence (DNI) by President Donald Trump, appeared before the Senate for her confirmation hearing, addressing concerns raised by both Democratic and Republican senators. Known for her controversial stances on foreign policy and past statements, Gabbard confronted criticisms head-on, defending her loyalty to the U.S. Constitution and her commitment to national security.

In her opening remarks, Gabbard rejected accusations that she has shown sympathy toward authoritarian figures like Bashar al-Assad or Muammar Gaddafi, stating, “I have no love for Assad or Gaddafi or any dictator. I simply detest al Qaeda.” She criticized U.S. foreign policy decisions that, in her view, empowered Islamist extremist groups, denouncing the practice of labeling such groups as “rebels.”

Gabbard, a veteran of the armed forces and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve, previously served multiple terms as a Democratic Representative in the U.S. House. In 2020, she sought the Democratic presidential nomination but later endorsed President Trump in his second presidential campaign. She has been vocal about her opposition to interventions in Iraq and Libya, calling the removal of leaders like Hosni Mubarak and Muammar Gaddafi mistakes. Additionally, she has disputed claims that Assad used chemical weapons against civilians.

Her defense of NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden and her criticism of U.S. policies regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have further fueled skepticism among senators. These positions, along with her past remarks, prompted tough questions from lawmakers during the hearing.

Gabbard responded forcefully to detractors who have labeled her as being aligned with foreign adversaries or former President Trump, saying, “Those who oppose my nomination imply that I am loyal to something or someone other than God, my own conscience, and the Constitution of the U.S.” She also addressed religious bias against her as a Hindu, emphasizing her commitment to religious freedom and inviting critics to understand her spiritual beliefs better.

Citing her military background and experience, Gabbard promised to prioritize depoliticizing the intelligence community if confirmed. She highlighted the need to address past intelligence failures, such as the Iraq War and the politicization of investigations, including those involving President Trump. “If confirmed as DNI, I will do my very best to fulfill this mandate and bring leadership to the intelligence community with a laser-like focus on our essential mission, ensuring the safety, security, and freedom of the American people,” she pledged.

The position of DNI oversees the coordination of 18 intelligence agencies, including the CIA, NSA, FBI, and Defense Intelligence Agency. As the Senate deliberates her confirmation, Gabbard’s nomination remains polarizing, with supporters lauding her independence and critics questioning her alignment with bipartisan foreign policy norms.

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